Michael “Chicago Mike” Sumler of Kool & the Gang Passes Away in Car Crash at 71

Michael Sumler, affectionately known in the music world as “Chicago Mike,” has died following a car crash in Cobb County, Georgia. He was 71.

Sumler, a longtime member of the iconic funk and R&B group Kool & the Gang, was driving on Veterans Memorial Highway near Buckner Road just before midnight on Saturday when his vehicle collided with another. He died at the scene.

With a career that spanned more than three decades, Sumler was a familiar face and voice to generations of fans. Known for his high energy and crowd engagement, he served as the group’s hype man, bringing an unmistakable spirit to every performance.

“He was the hype guy out of the group, getting the audience going,” said Greg Williams of Switch Entertainment.

But Sumler’s impact went far beyond the stage. Even in his later years, he remained deeply involved in the music community, mentoring up-and-coming artists and supporting others behind the scenes.

Family members, many of whom still live in Chicago, have not yet announced memorial arrangements.